Time has passed so fast since the earthquake in Japan. My life hasn't changed a bit on the other hand millions of people are suffering. I did a little contribution and planned some charity in school, but nobody was saved by me. I feel nothing but sad and guilty.
As I say so, why would I not go on the busy street in the city and hold a little box and ask people "Please help Japan!" to collect money. Somehow I have this twisted feeling for that. I wish I didn't have, but I do.
I can't help noticing many groups which organized by Japanese in N.Y. has started a drive to raise funds.
Hasn't America sent enormous amount of money, foods and well trained rescue people to Japan already? Who paid for it? Everybody in U.S who is paying tax. How come I can ask them money again and again with having a saving account for myself?
For me, it's OK to have a charity event or something like that. Not only OK but also we really should. We should donate money that we earn or save to help our people. But I just can't beg only for money.
I might get yelled by people who are trying to fill their boxes. They might think I'm an egoist or a cold hearted unpatriotic person.
A few days ago, I've seen this Japanese lady who were on the seemingly slum street in Thailand to ask contribution on TV. To my surprise, many people gave her some change or bills! I was so moved their generous acts but wait, they don't even wear shoes!
Apart from the damaged area, people in Japan are still having affluent life comparing to those people. At least they have enough money to buy extra food and batteries to stock.
Thinking of people who are suffering pain and cold and fear in devastated area, it's natural to think "do something", but for most of people it's not that giving up their saving account. I don't think 3 % tax raise for the specific area will get unanimous agreement. I don't blame them because I'm the one of them.
That doesn't mean I can give up searching for things I can do. But for me it is not the holding a box.
It's time for us Japanese to face and fight our ego as much as we can.
Thank you very much for your contribution, America and the World! We might need some more help from you constantly but we are also finding the way out.
No comments:
Post a Comment